Puya sp. (Rio Pachachaca) - A terrestrial bromeliad that forms clumps of 2 foot wide relatively open rosettes of narrow powdery-blue gray leaves that reflex downwards with age and tall unbranched 5 foot tall spikes bearing greenish yellow flowers in the spring. Plant in full sun in a well-drained soil and irrigate very little to none. This plant is native to a relatively high elevation but between the Tropic of Capricorn and the Equator so, while likely is hardy to frost and possibly very hardy, its ultimate hardiness is yet unknown. Our plants are grown from seed that originated from Rio Pachachaca, Peru. Plants were growing along the steep roadside in rocky soil adjacent to the Rio Pachachaca at around 8,000 feet in elevation northeast of the town of Chalhuanca.
This description is based on our research and observations made of this plant as it grows in our nursery, in the nursery garden and in other gardens that we have visited. We will also incorporate comments received from others and always appreciate getting feedback of any kind from those who have some additional information about this plant, in particular if this information is contrary to what we have written or if they have additional cultural tips that would aid others in growing Puya sp. "Rio Pachachaca".